Campaigners say a lack of access to mental health services while demand is increasing risks a ‘lost generation’ of children and young people.

The warning from the Scottish Children’s Services Coalition (SCSC) comes after it was revealed referrals to mental health services for young people during lockdown had dropped by 57% between April and June, compared to the same time last year.

The figures for 12 of Scotland’s 14 health boards, which were obtained by BBC Scotland, show a wide variation across the country – from a fall of 28% in NHS Orkney to 80% in NHS Dumfries and Galloway for April and May only.

The SCSC has warned that self-isolation and social distancing have had an impact on young people struggling with issues such as anxiety and depression, but even the “most resilient” children will now need additional support.

It has called for “significant” investment in mental health services as children return to school and to ensure that teachers and other staff are aware of the services on offer for young people needing support.

Last month a report from the Scottish Parliament’s petitions committee warned levels of support for young people’s mental health paint a ‘troubling picture’.

A spokesperson for the SCSC said: “These latest figures are deeply troubling and point to a ‘perfect storm’ for our young people, with increased demand coupled with cuts in services.

“While referrals have dropped during lockdown and children are not accessing support, we are storing up immense problems for the future as mental health services face being overwhelmed due to greatly increased demand."

The spokesperson said urgent work was required to ensure sufficient provision of support, which is easily accessible for young people and their parents or carers.

“Mental health services must be given funding and resources equal to that of physical health provision and this pandemic has ushered in an urgency and necessity that cannot be ignored.

“Not just the NHS but also third sector and other independent organisations who play such a key role in addressing mental health services must receive the funding they vitally need or we face having a ‘lost generation’ of vulnerable children and young people.” 

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